Does your blog or site make someone’s life better? This morning when I was thinking about what my website gives others, I opened an email from Sonia Simone, co-founder of Copyblogger.com about the source of authority*. What I found interesting as I read on, was their explanation that “authority is about more than attention … it’s about a very specific *kind* of attention” that you get from your online readers (which is different to the attention someone gets when they are famous).
If you want people to give your site or blog that special attention, then you need to provide something that makes their life better; something that will make them want to come back (otherwise you may just get your parents reading your posts plus a few supportive friends – this may be enough if you’re not bothered about this ‘special’ attention).
So, where does authority come from?
Authority apparently comes from YOU. Copyblogger says that this is made up of three things which I have placed into a formula as follows:
AUTHORITY = Having Confidence + Giving Great Advice + Putting your Ego to One side
I’m also going to write the following message on my wall:
“Authority comes from taking what you know best and sharing it with others to their benefit. And, incidentally, to your benefit.”
Sonia Simone and Brian Clark
Copyblogger Media and Authority Rules
Their email also got me thinking about the fact that there are so many authoritative figures out there already and we recognise them in the form of teachers, experts and founders of companies. We go to these individuals or companies for advice. Wouldn’t it be nice if people came to you for advice? If you are ‘doing’ and ‘teaching’ as part of your business then this is a great recipe for authority. If you build up your website with great content that your readers want, then you are on the way to getting that special attention.
My thoughts as I begin 2012
I’m starting the new year very positive about my writing, but also aware that I need to move a few steps forward if I want to making a living from being a freelance writer. I pour a lot of hours into research, writing and editing (not just on this blog, but on others as well) and I’m learning loads (which is the whole purpose of My Writing Notebook). I’m also confident that all the effort will pay off eventually if I remain motivated, determined and am continually giving something to others.
What does your website or blog give others?
Until tomorrow..
Sandra
Freelance Writer
www.sandramadeira.
* Where does authority come from? Authority Rules.com
Related articles
- Note 243 – Authority = Great Content + Shared Links + Google Ranking (mywritingnotebook.com)
- The Best of Copyblogger 2011 (copyblogger.com)
- Note 244 – Making income from your authoritative website (mywritingnotebook.com)
My Writing Notebook 
Hmmmmmm….interesting question Sandra 🙂
I created my Blog for me, to keep a record of my thoughts, feelings, and development on my writing journey. I didn’t honestly expect anyone else to read it, so I was kinda shocked that someone did lol.
I totally understand what you’re saying though…..and I spose, at some stage, it may be something I really need to consider 🙂
Xxx
Posted by Vikki | January 2, 2012, 6:59 amThat’s a good point Vikki – everyone’s blogs are there for different purposes. I wouldn’t change things if it is working for you. I suppose I started out like that a few years ago; it was like dipping my toe in the water to see if my writing was any good. It’s a good feeling though when people give you nice commments. Have a lovely day 🙂
Posted by Sandra Madeira | January 2, 2012, 7:19 amGreat post!
I also started my blog for my own personal reasons and I must be honest, when I initially started it, the last thing I thought about was helping others. I considered blogging a narcissistic endeavour but I realised pretty early on that it doesn’t have to be that way. Everybody has a story that others can learn from, and imparting that wisdom can be very rewarding for everyone concerned. Although I might add that even an emotional rant can be helpful if someone identifies with it… 😉
Posted by Nisha | January 2, 2012, 10:12 amI totally agree Nisha – thanks for the comment 🙂
Posted by Sandra Madeira | January 3, 2012, 6:57 amNice post thanks for shariing
Posted by Jack M | July 22, 2023, 1:34 am